The gaming industry has evolved rapidly over the last 20 years. Initially, we had 2D shapes and 8-bit graphics, and now, we have realistic engines, VR, and lifelike graphics paving the way for the next generation. Although technology and gaming have enhanced, it hasnt always been a smooth process. This is because there are so many different manufacturers out there and theyre all battling it out and trying to be the first. However, this means that there are some issues along the way that need patching up. Not only has the look of games changed, but the way we access them has too. We no longer need bulky consoles and TV screens – we take high-definition games with us and play them on smartphones. If you want to find out more, continue reading as we look at how gaming has evolved over the last 20 years.
Mobile Gaming and Social Network Games
Mobile gaming is one of the largest revenue streams in the gaming world. The large-scale access and the rise in players led to social media giants creating games to play through their engines. For example, Facebook put hidden games into their messenger application including basketball and football. Further, there is an entire Facebook games marketplace to browse and enjoy. After social media gaming, there was a plethora of simple games including Angry Birds and Candy Crush Saga. Thanks to this era of mobile gaming, the quality of games available is rising every ear. Now, you can head to your favourite casino and check out the pokies online.
eSports
With the emergence of online gaming, there was an explosion in eSports tournaments where people battled it out in their favorite games. Now, these arent your ordinary people; they are considered experts. In the same way that the football world has the elites, the eSports world is just the same. This industry is so enormous at this point, that its expected to reach a billion dollars worth in revenue as the fanbase explodes.
AR and VR
AR and VR are exciting technologies that are seeing heavy advancement. Instead of staring at a TV screen, players can be transported into different worlds through altered senses. Instead of using a controller, players control the world around them themselves. This is an exciting development that you can see played out perfectly in the film Ready Player One. Console Wars As mentioned previously, there are more gaming manufacturers than ever before, which has led to the battle of the next-gen console. The most recent battle saw the PS5, Xbox Series S/X, and The Nintendo Switch trying to dominate the market. Each of the consoles has benefits and access to a niche market thanks to exclusive games. Typically, these consoles sell out everywhere and there is a frenzy of people trying to pay over the odds for them.
Theres no denying that the gaming industry has moved on since the days of the Sega Master System. The majority of changes have happened over the last 20 years, and it will be interesting to see where technology takes us next.
